They install oxygen defusers in the lake, first I have heard a big lake doing that. That will really help the health of the lake. Also you can now see it on google earth

yes, TPWD formula that made Fork what it used to be will work at this new lake as well.

In 10 years it will have quality bass but it will be awhile. That lake will have to turn over, drought, all the trees die off then fill back up

Answer to the question. NO

If TPWD will make it a strict catch and release lake only for LMB, that will give the Sharelunker genetics several years of spawning to increase numbers. We all know a new lane with zero pressure getting opened and hammered the first few years will lead to easy to catch fish initially. To me the issue of longevity and reaching Fork potential comes down to how many fish are harvested before the numbers can be built up, and how many are killed because of tournaments. Tournaments using a MLF format would greatly benefit this new lake, especially the first few years it is open.

Just my .02

Good point, but look at Tawakoni. It has HUGE stockings of hybrids, stripers, and some of the biggest catfish you will ever catch in Texas. It also has great bass fishing. What I believe killed the LMB in Cooper was that drought and low water levels. LMB became baitfish for the hybrids and large catfish in it as well because the LMB didn’t have shoreline cover and the trees to hide in during the spawning seasons. With huge numbers of hybrids and sand bass in Cooper, the LMB didn’t have a chance during the drought. At Tawakoni, the LMB has plenty of cover, thus an equal opportunity to survive.

Makes perfect sense Dan. I've always wondered why Cooper seemingly collapsed. I've never fished it, but, had considered it, but, was warned off by students/friends from Sulpher Springs.. I do have one question, early on was Cooper a true quality Largemouth Bass fishery or has it always been a disappointment?

Yes Sir. Cooper was great when I started fishing it in the late 90s and a few years earlier. Best time I have ever had bass fishing. Missed out on early days at Fork

Man that's a serious bummer! Seems like TPWD could bring it back....grass, etc. Surely there's enough LMB pop to bring it back over time. Sure is a shame to just give up on it.

Sorry for the derailment OP....